John Franklin Mallory was born September 13, 1957 in Richmond, Virginia to the late Stevenson Franklin Phillips and Annie M. (Mallory) Allen. "John Frank" and "Peter Red" as he was affectionately known, was baptized at Bethany Baptist Church in Montpelier, VA at an early age. In the early 60's John's mother and sisters relocated to Chester, PA. After much discussion and pleading by his grandmother – it was decided that he would remain in VA and be raised by his loving and devoted grandparents Clinton and

Annie Mallory. Pete (his mother) never missed an opportunity to spoil her "Prince John" John was educated in the Hanover County School district. He was gifted with the "Phillips" music talent gene. He played drums in the Patrick Henry High School band, and drummer in a local band, Mighty Right Earth Quake.

Shortly after arriving in Chester, PA John became a member of the Boots and Bonnets softball team. He was an awesome ball player; if the ball was batted outfield in his direction you could bank on him catching it! A huge crowd of family members and friends would come out to see him play, over everybody else's voice you could hear his mother yell, "Come on John Franklin" as he hustled to make a catch on up to bat.

John began his employment journey with WinDoor Company, Richmond, VA. After relocating to Chester, PA in the late 70's, he continued his employment career with Container Research Company and later with Curtiss –Wright Company where he became a supervisor. John had recently retired after 35 years of service. He was a reliable and dedicated employee who was recognized several times for perfect attendance.

While John eventually made Claymont DE his place of residence, he kept his ties with family and friends in both Montpelier, VA and Chester PA. John became known to many as a real "nice" guy. Keeping to his roots, he was proud to be from the country – as he would say "You'll know!"

John was a soft-spoken person (even if his ire was up – which was rare- his voice volume never increased. He was a kind big brother, a good son and above all he loved the Lord.  "Well done" John Franklin!

He leaves to cherish his memory: two sisters, Mildred "Bunny" Handy (Jeffery) and Angela Smith-Reed (Adrian) both of Brookhaven PA; one brother Warren Coles (Edna) of Bumpass, VA; two aunts Mildred P. Walker (Willie) Edgemoor DE and Lula Mallory, Montpelier VA one great-aunt Juanita Henderson, Montpelier, VA; five nephews, four nieces; four great nieces, ten great nephews; three great-great nephews and two great-great nieces along with a host of cousins. In addition, his friendship will be cherished by three devoted friends, Arlette (Art) Pettaway, Eric Michael, and Charles (Charlie Red) Thomas